Build Inquiry into Instruction
Guiding Questions
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Hummingbird

  Dick Daniels Enlarge Image



Build inquiry into instruction by creating experiences that encourage your students to do what scientists do: observing closely, recording detailed notes, asking thoughtful questions, proposing reasonable hypotheses, researching for information, experimenting to collect evidence-based data, analyzing data, and summarizing findings.

Use the photo and guiding questions to model how to observe details, formulate questions, and make hypotheses. Spark students' curiosity and let the questions they share lead to research and discovery.

 

Questions About Details

  • What did you notice first in this photo?
  • How would you describe specific details you see? Objects? Colors?
  • What do you notice when you zoom in on a specific area in the photo?
  • How would you describe what is happening?
  • What time of year do you think this photo was taken?

Comparison Questions

  • How is _____ the same as _____? Different than _____?
  • How would you describe the colors? They look like ____ and remind me of _____.

Counting/Measurement Questions

  • How many objects can you find and name in the photo?
  • How many different colors do you see in the photo?

Prediction Questions

  • What do you think will happen next and why?
  • What do you think would happen if...?

Reasoning Questions

  • What scientific explanations would provide clues about what is happening in this photo?
  • How would you explain what is happening?
  • Why do you think this photo was taken?
  • How might a scientist describe, explain, or interpret the scene this photo depicts?
  • How might a poet describe or interpret this photo?
  • What sounds might you hear...? What fragrances might you smell? What textures might you feel if you were in the setting captured by this photo?